The Partnership Between the US Rugby Foundation and USA Youth and High School Rugby: A Catalyst for Growth

In 2022, the US Rugby Foundation (USRF) and USA Youth and High School Rugby (YHS) forged a partnership that has only strengthened over time. This powerful collaboration, rooted in a shared vision to make rugby a mainstream sport in the U.S., focuses on ensuring rugby's accessibility across the country, offering development pathways for players, and fostering a lifelong love for the game through strategic investments and grants.

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The US Rugby Foundation, established with the mission of supporting rugby's growth across America for six decades, has been a cornerstone of the sport's development. Their partnership with YHS, the governing body responsible for overseeing and promoting the sport among young players, combines USRF's commitment to funding and promoting grassroots programs, college scholarships, coach & referee development, and health & safety initiatives with YHS's goal of inspiring a rugby revolution. Together, they aim to establish rugby as the premier, fun-filled, and safe youth sport that captivates players, families, and communities alike, providing opportunities for young athletes to learn and excel in the game.

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Key Initiatives: Building the Future of Rugby

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1. USRF/YHS New High School Fund

One of the first initiatives US Rugby Foundation and YHS undertook was the creation of the New High School Club Fund. The Foundation provided a $100,000 grant to YHS in order to distribute into the community. These grants cover costs such as equipment, uniforms, and field rentals, making it easier for schools and clubs to offer rugby as a sport. By lowering the financial barriers to entry, the Foundation is helping to ensure that more young people have the opportunity to experience the game. Over a two year period, the program has funded 21 new high schools from all corners of the country! 

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2. Scholarships for College-bound Rugby Players

The US Rugby Foundation also offers scholarships to high school rugby players who wish to continue their education and rugby careers at the collegiate level. These scholarships recognize not only athletic talent but also academic achievement and leadership qualities. By supporting student-athletes in their pursuit of higher education, the Foundation is investing in the future leaders of the sport. View scholarship details.

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3. Support of the Urban Rugby Championship

The partnership between the US Rugby Foundation and USA Youth and High School Rugby extends to the support of the Urban Rugby Championship. 2024 was the tournaments its third edition, this event continues on its groundbreaking trajectory and has delivered on its promise to create a transformative experience for the players, programs, and community it gathers. 

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4. The USAR/YHS Virtual Academy

Most recently, YHS announced a unique partnership with USA Rugby High Performance. The Initiative aims to revolutionize player development in American rugby, leveraging cutting-edge technology and world-class coaching methodologies. ‘The High School Pathway’ is designed to identify, select, and progressively develop a large pool of aspiring U15-U18 players nationwide, including coordinated player identification programs, regional and national development assemblies – and a novel ‘Virtual Academy.’

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The USRF has been a strong supporter of this initiative since the idea was pitched to them. The Foundation immediately saw the value the program has and provided a grant that was instrumental in the programming coming to fruition. As the YHS/USA Rugby High Performance program develops, the Foundation’s assistance and grant will help this game changing initiative produce some of the next USA Eagles to compete in our home World Cups in 2031 and 2033! 

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The Positive Impact: A Growing Community

The efforts of the US Rugby Foundation and USA Youth and High School Rugby are paying off. The sport is seeing increased participation at the youth level, with more schools and communities embracing rugby. The initiatives supported by these organizations are helping to build a strong foundation for the sport, creating a pipeline of talented players who will go on to represent the U.S. at higher levels.

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Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Rugby in the U.S.

As these initiatives continue to expand, the future of rugby in the United States looks bright. With ongoing support and integration among the rugby community, there is no doubt that the sport will continue to flourish, inspiring more young athletes to take up the game and carry the torch for American rugby.

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